A CHRISTMAS tree has been put up on Winchester High Street more than six weeks before December 25.
This comes ahead of the switching on of the city's festive lights on Thursday, November 14.
This annual event, organised by Winchester BID and sponsored by Dutton Gregory Solicitors, attracts many thousands of people to the city centre.
Taking place in The Broadway outside the Guildhall, the Winchester Christmas lights will be switched on by local heroes nominated by the public.
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"The Christmas Lights Switch On kick starts the festive season in Winchester and is a fun, family event that brings together the whole community and helps get everyone in the festive spirit."
Sarah added: "It is also the perfect opportunity to shine the spotlight on some of our community heroes, which is why we are in search of well deserving local people to help switch on this year’s lights.
"A special thank you to the event sponsor Dutton Gregory Solicitors and to all the businesses which sponsor the High Street Christmas tree – we couldn’t do it without you."
The event is hosted by Heart Radio and promises an evening full of festive fun, with Winchester Round Table’s Santa’s Sleigh and wonderful live performances from Harestock Primary School Choir, The Pilgrims’ School Chamber Choir, Rubik’s Cube, Winchester A Capella, Integr8 Dance, Theatre Royal Winchester, Rock Choir and Diva Academy.
There will also be a Giant Inflatable Snow Globe which will be located in The Square on the day of the Switch On from 12 noon to 8pm.
SEE ALSO: Winchester Christmas tree now up ahead of lights switch-on
Visitors to the Snow Globe are encouraged to make a voluntary donation to Spare Change for Lasting Change, Winchester BID’s charity scheme which aims to help reduce street begging and rough sleeping in the city by supporting two local homelessness charities, Trinity Winchester and The Winchester Beacon.
Winchester BID is hosting a Christmas chalet where a selection of local independent businesses will be trading. Why not visit the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market this festive season and visit the local independent businesses showcasing their Christmas offerings.
People can grab a free tote bag to promote shopping with local #IndieWinch businesses. The Winchester BID chalet will run for the full duration until the market closes on December 22.
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